New businesses, Panda Express and Chick-fil-A, have expanded the existing options of AMPM, Coconut Kenny’s, Chipotle, and Starbucks for high school students who want to work in the Soper Hill Center
Not only do these restaurants increase food options and employment opportunities, but they also build a stronger community here in Lake Stevens. Already, Chick-fil-A has been supporting the community through donations, and Panda Express has contributed through fundraisers, further growing our community and proving that these establishments are indeed beneficial to Lake Stevens.
Some students have already taken advantage of the job opportunities on Soper Hill.
“I feel that the environment at Chick-fil-A allows me to really get myself out there and work on my customer service,” senior Kohli Lee said.
These jobs are essential for gaining work experience and will help high school students prepare for their future, regardless of their chosen pathway. And if their pathway is college, Chick-fil-A will support their workers if they need money.
“Chick-fil-A also has scholarships and other things I can apply for that can help me in my future,” Lee said.
Panda Express has already run a fundraiser for the Lake Stevens Boys and Girls Club, where 50 percent of the proceeds went to the organization.
During the opening day of Chick-fil-A, on Oct. 30, 2025, anyone who dressed up as a cow received a sandwich for free. Not only is this a generous gesture by Chick-fil-A, but it was also inclusive and encouraged anyone to come out on opening day.
Chick-fil-A has become a national restaurant chain. Now, Chick-fil-A has 22 locations in Washington, five of them in Snohomish County.
“Well, I just think that Chick-fil-A is going to be a good experience for Lake Stevens,” junior Ben Nye said.
Soper Hill Center will continue to be a hotspot in Lake Stevens.
